A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boston vs. Breckenridge for Old Town, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Boston or Breckenridge?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Boston and Breckenridge. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Boston

Boston is a classic, proud, and loyal city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a adventurous, scenic, and nature-filled ski resort. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Boston and Breckenridge: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Freedom Trail
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Boston or Breckenridge?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boston. Although Boston and Breckenridge are popular destinations, Boston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boston is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, and big city activities, while Breckenridge attracts visitors for its skiing, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Boston is famous for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also well known for The Freedom Trail. Breckenridge is famous for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment.

How is Boston different from Breckenridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Breckenridge and Boston. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Boston or Breckenridge Better for Skiing?

Boston
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is an unbeatable place for snow skiing. However, Boston is not a skiing destination.

Breckenridge is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. This is one of the most recognizable ski destinations in the world. It has diverse terrain that is good for all levels including beginners, intermediate, and expert skiers. The resort also has the tallest chairlift in North America.

Boston is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boston or Breckenridge?

Boston
Breckenridge

Boston is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Boston are among the most recognizable in the world. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Boston or Breckenridge Better for Theater?

Boston
Breckenridge

Boston is a well-known place for its theatre productions. However, Breckenridge is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Breckenridge is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Boston or Breckenridge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boston
Breckenridge

Boston is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Boston. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Breckenridge is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a number of restaurants around town serving everything from casual to fine dining. There are bistros, pubs, and luxury options where you can enjoy international or local dishes including elk and buffalo.


Is Boston or Breckenridge Better for Nightlife?

Boston
Breckenridge

Boston is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its evening party scene.

Boston offers plenty to do in the evening. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Breckenridge. The town comes to life in the winter and there are plenty of bars, breweries, and a wide selection of craft beer that you can try. Live music also brings the town to life in the evening.

Is Boston or Breckenridge Better for Music?

Boston
Breckenridge

Boston is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Breckenridge is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Boston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Breckenridge is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or Breckenridge Better for Resorts?

Boston
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a good destination for its resorts. However, Boston is not a resort destination.

Breckenridge has a handful of resorts to choose from. The resorts often have pools or hot tubs where you can unwind after a day on the slopes. Many have condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms.

Boston is not a resort destination.


Is Boston or Breckenridge Better for Beaches?

Boston
Breckenridge

Boston is a moderate city for the beache. However, Breckenridge is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Breckenridge is not a beach destination.

Is Boston or Breckenridge Better for its Old Town?

Boston
Breckenridge

Boston is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Boston is revered around the world. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Breckenridge has an old town worth visiting. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Is Boston or Breckenridge Better for Hiking?

Boston
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

Breckenridge offers some nice hiking trails. During the summer months there are plenty of beautiful hikes nearby, but you'll likely need a car to reach most trailheads. Popular trails include Hoosier Pass Loop, Blue Lakes Trail, and McCullough Gulch.

Boston is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Breckenridge?

Boston
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is notable for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Breckenridge is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Boston or Breckenridge Better for Christmas?

Boston
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is an unbeatable place for its Christmas activities. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences.

Breckenridge is a fantastic destination at Christmas. From sledding to sleigh rides and hot chocolate, this town is absolutely magical during the Christmas season.

Since it has plenty to do, Boston is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Is Boston or Breckenridge Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston
Breckenridge

Visitors can find superb Christmas markets in both Boston and Breckenridge.

Boston has a large number of Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Many people head to Breckenridge to see its Christmas markets. During the holiday season the Arts District hosts a Christmas Market.


Is Boston or Breckenridge Better for Families?

Boston
Breckenridge

Boston is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Boston is a very family-friendly destination. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Breckenridge. It is a fun, family-friendly ski resort town with skiing for all levels. There are lessons for kids starting at the age of three, and slopes that are perfect for all skill levels. The town also has ice skating, sledding, and white water rafting.

Is Boston or Breckenridge Better for Couples?

Boston
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is notable for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Breckenridge is a very popular place to visit for couples. For couples who enjoy skiing, outdoor activities, beautiful hikes, and a charming small town atmosphere, this is the perfect romantic getaway.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Boston or Breckenridge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston
Breckenridge

Both Boston and Breckenridge are nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Breckenridge. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.


Is Boston or Breckenridge Better for Students?

Boston
Breckenridge

Boston is a world-class destination for students. However, Breckenridge is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Boston. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Breckenridge is not popular with students.

Is Boston or Breckenridge Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boston
Breckenridge

Boston is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Breckenridge is not a good ski resort for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Boston can get you around easily. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Breckenridge. There is a free shuttle service around town.

Is Boston or Breckenridge a more walkable city?

Boston
Breckenridge

Boston and Breckenridge both are amazing when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Boston on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Breckenridge. The town is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.


For even more information, also check out Is Boston Worth Visiting? and Is Breckenridge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Breckenridge or Boston?

How long in Boston or Breckenridge?

Both Boston and Breckenridge have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Breckenridge than in Boston. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boston, and 3-7 days is enough time in Breckenridge.

Families should spend more time in Boston than Breckenridge. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Boston, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Breckenridge than Boston. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Breckenridge that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than Breckenridge if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Boston.


  • How many days in Boston or Breckenridge? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boston 3-5 
    Breckenridge 3-7

One day in Boston or Breckenridge?

Each neighborhood in Boston has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Breckenridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Boston or Breckenridge?

Boston is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the museums. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Breckenridge is a great place to explore. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Boston or Breckenridge?

Each neighborhood in Boston has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the museums. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Breckenridge. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Boston or Breckenridge?

Boston is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Breckenridge is a small town with plenty to do. This ski resort offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Breckenridge or Boston?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Boston is $255, while the average daily cost in Breckenridge is $200. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Boston and Breckenridge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boston $166
    Breckenridge $106
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boston $332
    Breckenridge $212
Compare Hotels in Boston and Breckenridge

Looking for a hotel in Boston or Breckenridge? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Boston


Hotels in Breckenridge


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Boston Hotel Prices and Breckenridge Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boston $37
    Breckenridge $19
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Boston are as follows:


  • Taxi
    $35
  • Subway Daily Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Boston:

  • Private Departure Transfer to Boston Airport BOS: $28
  • Private Arrival Transfer from (BOS) Boston Airport: $28
  • Cruiseport Boston to Boston Airport (BOS) - Departure Transfer: $38
  • Boston Logan Intl Airport (BOS) to Flynn Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $38
  • Boston Airport(BOS) to Flynn Cruiseport Boston - Arrival Transfer: $38
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Boston Airport (BOS) to City Downtown: $69
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Boston Downtown to Boston Airport (BOS): $69
  • Boston to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) - Departure Private Transfer: $79
  • Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Boston - Arrival Private Transfer: $79
  • Departure Private Transfer Boston to Boston Airport BOS Business-Luxury Vehicle: $84
  • Private Transfer from Boston City Hotels to Newport Cruise Port: $88
  • Private transfer: Boston to Boston Airport (BOS): $96

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Breckenridge

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Breckenridge:

  • Eagle County Airport to Breckenridge/Keystone-Round-Trip Transfer: $185
  • Breckenridge to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $193
  • Breckenridge/Keystone/Copper to Denver Airport-Departure Transfer: $196
  • Breckenridge Ski Resort to Denver Airport APA Departure Transfer: $197
  • Denver Airport APA to Breckenridge Ski Resort-Arrival Transfer: $197

Is it cheaper to fly into Boston or Breckenridge?

Prices for flights to both Breckenridge and Boston change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Boston $49
    Breckenridge $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boston

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Boston.

  • AM Coffee Walks with Salem Food Tours: $34
  • Boston's North End Pizza & History Walking Food Tour: $49
  • North End Pizza Tour with 3 Slices and Cannoli: $55
  • North End Food Experience with Pizza, Meats & Cheese: $68
  • Boston Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
  • Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on Boston Harbor: $77
  • Ultimate Food Tour of North End & Public Market: $79
  • Boston's North End Small Group Food Tour : $81
  • Ultimate Boston Food Tour: North End & Boston Public Market: $89
  • Union Square, Somerville Neighborhood Food Tour: $90
  • Boston Harbor: Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $108
  • Local Gems of the South End Neighborhood Food Tour: $110

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boston $33
    Breckenridge $94
Typical Entertainment Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Boston are as follows:


  • Two Tickets to Celtics Game
    $101
  • Duck Tour
    $32

Tours and Activities in Boston

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Boston are as follows:

  • Self Guided "Historic Boston Downtown Freedom Trail" Audio/GPS Walking Tour: $5.00
  • Self Guided Audio Tour 'Hawthorne's Haunts' Haunted Walking Tour Salem: $5.00
  • Underground Railroad Audio App Self-Guided Tour: $5.00
  • Self-Guided Smartphone Ghost Walking Tour in Boston: $5.95
  • Self-Guided Freedom Trail Walking Audio Tour w/ App: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Smartphone Ghost Walking Tour in Salem: $5.99
  • App Self-guided tours with Audioguide Boston: $6.42
  • Self-Guided Boston's Beacon Hill Underground Railroad Audio Tour Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Self Guided Classic Freedom Trail Location Aware (GPS) Walking Audio Tour: $7.75
  • City History and Highlights Audio App Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Boston History and Highlights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Charlestown: Bunker Hill Monument Self-Guide Walking Tour: $7.99

Tours and Activities in Breckenridge

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Breckenridge are as follows:

  • Smartphone Driving Tour b/w Breckenridge & Denver: $7.99
  • Breckenridge Scavenger Hunt: Breckenridge Adventure: $12
  • Self-Guided Snow Shoe Tours: $17
  • Breckenridge Tours - Strange but True: $32
  • Breckenridge Tours - Ghostly Tales : $33
  • Breckenridge Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Real Gold Mine Tour with, gold panning and more: $47
  • Island Kayak Tour Experience in Frisco: $67
  • Half-Day Upper Colorado River Float Tour from Kremmling: $94
  • Continental Divide Tour: $145
  • 3 Hours 30 Minutes Colorado Astrophotography Experience: $260

For more ideas for your next trip, check out Free Things to Do in Boston, Must-See Monuments and Memorials In Boston, and The Best Things To Do in Boston with Kids.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boston $27
    Breckenridge $7.79

Sample the Local Flavors in Boston

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Boston:

  • Boston Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl of Historic Pubs and Taverns: $30
  • Boston Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl : $34
  • Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures: $35
  • Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • History Pub Crawl Tour Along the Freedom Trail: $59
  • Boston Small-Group Freedom Trail History Tour Pub Crawl: $60
  • Boston Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tour with a Snack: $105

Sample the Local Flavors in Breckenridge

Also in Breckenridge, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Ridden Fat Bike Beer & Distillery Tour: $85


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Boston and Breckenridge, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Breckenridge much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Breckenridge would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Breckenridge and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston than you might in Breckenridge.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Boston Expensive? and Is Breckenridge Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Boston or Breckenridge?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 210 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Boston and Breckenridge, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.